Statutory Demand and Bankruptcy Solicitors

If a debtor continues to ignore payment requests or a County Court Judgment (CCJ), you may be able to recover the debt using insolvency proceedings. A Statutory Demand is often the first step, warning the debtor that bankruptcy proceedings may follow if the debt remains unpaid.

At Latimer Solicitors, we help clients across England and Wales issue and manage statutory demands and bankruptcy petitions. Our experienced team provides clear, practical advice to ensure the process is handled lawfully and effectively.

Why Statutory Demands and Bankruptcy Matter

A Statutory Demand is a powerful legal tool. It is not just another letter — it formally notifies the debtor that unless they pay or reach an agreement within 21 days, you can ask the court to make them bankrupt.

Bankruptcy can have serious consequences for the debtor, including loss of assets and restrictions on future borrowing. Because of this, statutory demands often prompt swift payment or settlement.

However, this process should only be used for undisputed debts over £5,000. If the debt is disputed, or the debtor has no significant assets, other enforcement options may be more suitable. We can help you choose the right approach.

How Latimer Solicitors Can Help

Our debt recovery solicitors guide clients through every stage of the insolvency process, from serving the Statutory Demand to presenting a bankruptcy petition if necessary.

We will:

• Assess whether a statutory demand is appropriate for your case.
  
  
• Prepare and serve the Statutory Demand correctly on the debtor.
  
  
• Manage any response or attempt by the debtor to set aside the demand.
  
  
• Advise on settlement, repayment proposals, or mediation.
  
  
• Prepare and file a Bankruptcy Petition if payment is not received.
  
  
• Liaise with the court and the Official Receiver once the bankruptcy is made.
  
  

We will always discuss alternative enforcement methods, such as Charging Orders or High Court Enforcement, if these may provide a faster or more cost-effective outcome.

Our Process / What to Expect

1. Case Assessment
   We review your claim and confirm that the debt is undisputed, due, and over the £5,000 threshold.
   
   
2. Preparing and Serving the Statutory Demand
   We draft and serve the demand personally or through a process server, ensuring it complies with insolvency rules. The debtor then has 21 days to pay, settle, or apply to set it aside.
   
   
3. Debtor’s Response
   We handle any correspondence or applications made by the debtor, advising on whether a negotiated settlement is appropriate.
   
   
4. Bankruptcy Petition
   If the debt remains unpaid, we can issue a Bankruptcy Petition at court. This leads to a hearing where the court can make a bankruptcy order against the debtor.
   
   
5. Post-Bankruptcy Stage
   Once an order is made, the Official Receiver or Trustee in Bankruptcy takes control of the debtor’s assets. We can help you file a proof of debt to claim repayment from any realised assets.
   
   

Why Choose Latimer Solicitors?

• Experienced debt recovery and insolvency solicitors handling cases across England and Wales.
  
  
• Comprehensive advice on whether insolvency is the right route.
  
  
• Transparent costs and realistic guidance on timescales and outcomes.
  
  
• SRA regulated for professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity.
  
  
• Client-focused team who keep you informed and supported throughout.
  
  

We approach every case carefully to ensure your position is protected and your recovery options are used effectively.

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If you are owed more than £5,000 and the debtor has ignored all requests for payment, our Statutory Demand and Bankruptcy Solicitors can help you take the next step.

We will assess your situation, advise on the most appropriate action, and manage the process from start to finish.

Call 0161 798 9000, email info@latimerlee.com, or complete our online enquiry form.

Wherever you are in England or Wales, Latimer Solicitors can help you recover your debt through statutory demand or bankruptcy proceedings.

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